The Characteristics of Life

Organisation

All living things are composed of cells. Cells contain specialised structures called organelles. Cells themselves are organised into tissues, organs and systems.

Nutrition

Living things need food for energy and growth. Plants are autotrophs and animals are heterotrophs. Nutrition is the intake and use of energy and materials from the environment.

Excretion

Excretion is the removal of wastes such as carbon dioxide and water from the body.

Response

All living things are aware to some degree of changes that occur externally or internally. Response is the ability to react to these changes.

Reproduction

Reproduction is the ability to produce new individuals of its own kind. Reproduction can be either sexual or asexual